Highlights

A glimpse into one-of-a-kind events planned just for you. There’s something for every BITSian.

Apply to Pilani Sharks FAQ
Pilani Sharks 2.0

Live, on-stage pitches to a BITSian investor panel for capital and connections.

Mentor Corridors

Dedicated slots for deeper conversations with angels, operators and founders.

Demo Alley

Optional product booths to showcase traction and meet prospective customers.

Jan 9–11, 2026 Hyderabad Seed–Pre‑Series A

Pilani Sharks 2.0

The BITSian Shark-Tank style pitching showcase is back with its 2nd edition.

About Pilani Sharks

Pilani Sharks is a curated, invite-only pitching platform powered by the BITS entrepreneurial ecosystem (BITS Spark and BITSAA). Launched as part of previous BGM editions, Pilani Sharks connects high-potential BITS-founded startups with experienced BITSian investors and operators for on-the-spot funding, strategic growth, and mentorship.

Why Pilani Sharks Matter
  • Raise capital, live with fast-lane investor access.
  • Signal to the ecosystem with a credibility stamp for product, traction, and team.
  • Business development and prospective hires among the large BGM audience.
  • Mentorship & follow-on support from angels with cumulative investments of $100 Mn+.
Who Should Apply
  • Early-to-growth stage startups founded by BITS alumni, students, or faculty.
  • Revenue or traction-focused teams seeking seed to pre-Series A capital or strategic partnerships.
  • Founders ready to present a 5–8 minute pitch and engage in rapid diligence.
Format & What to Expect
  • Application: Apply via the Pilani Sharks Google Form (link below)
  • Shortlisting: Notifications by 15 December, 2025
  • Pitch Day: 5–8 minute pitch + 5 minute Q&A with Sharks
  • Investor Corridors: Deeper 1:1 conversations
  • Mentor Support: Quick sessions on product, GTM, hiring, fundraising
  • Demo Alley (optional): Booth space during BGM
Apply to Pilani Sharks

Submit your application by 10 November, 2025.

Shortlisted teams will be notified by 15 December. Logistics and pitch coaching resources will be shared with selected teams.

Organized by: BITS Spark & BITSAA

Supported by: BITSian angel network, partner VC (TBD)

Jury & Mentors

Anita Sakuru
Investor & Operator
Sundi Natarajan
Angel & Founder
Raghu Sethuraman
Operator & Advisor

More to be announced in the coming days.

Outcomes & Prizes

On-spot investor interest / term‑sheet conversations.

Access to a curated investor network of BITS alumni and allied funds.

Continuous mentorship with follow‑up sessions and introductions.

Visibility across BGM attendees including press, corporates, and customers.

Short FAQ

Founders who are BITS alumni, students, or faculty. Priority for teams with demonstrable traction or a clear path to scale.

Seed to pre-Series A is ideal, though strong earlier-stage projects may be considered.

No, but all team members need to register for BGM. Scholarships/waivers available for selected teams.

Selected pitches may be recorded for internal sharing with investors and for promotion. They will not be broadcast without consent.

Pilani Sharks 2.0 is where BITSian ambition meets alumni capital and domain expertise — pitch, partner and power up your startup at BGM 2026, Hyderabad. Learn more about BITS Spark

© 2026 Pilani Sharks | Powered by BITS Spark & BITSAA